Alfred Baumgartner

Big Al as he was known by family and friends passed on October 6, 2012 at the age of 91. Born in Strasburg ND he was best known as a ladies-man and the best dancer in town. Al served in WWII as a tank driver and medic; he was stationed in Australia, New Guinea, Southern Philippines, and Luzon. Al received the Good Conduct Medal, the American Theater Service Medal, the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, and the Philippine Liberation Medal with two Bronze Service Stars. After his discharge he lived in Yakima where he married Capitola Baumgartner who preceded him in death in 2006; they formally divorced in 1993. Al was a life-time member of the Yakima VFW 379 wherein he played cards, danced, and volunteered to drive fellow members to Seattle’s Veterans Hospital when needed. Al was a proud member of the Operating Engineers working in Oregon, Washington and Idaho building roads and dams. For most of his work-life he operated the Rock Crusher and other heavy equipment.

Al spent many years at the local fishing holes, on the ocean catching salmon, and partying with his best friend “Dobbs.” You may have seen his picture in the paper because he and Dobbs seem to always be in the right place for the Big Fish! Al continued to dance and party on Friday and Saturday nights at the VFW where in met his companion of 33 years, Ruth Schryvers. He and Ruth traveled throughout the USA and eventually settled in Mesa Arizona where he remained until shortly after Ruth’s passing in 2010. Big Al returned to Yakima and lived at Wynwood Assisted Living where he met Violet Hanthorn; they were good company for each other and shared ice cream nearly every night.

Al was preceded in death by his sisters Christine, Elizabeth, Irene, and brothers Joe, Max, Steve, and stepson Mike Zimmer. He is survived by his sister Theresa Burgad of Milwaukee, WI and three children, sons Tony Baumgartner (Debbie “Gress”) and Rick Baumgartner (Diane) of Yakima, and daughter Jo Ann Baumgartner and stepchildren Gary Zimmer and Harvey Edmonson, all of Federal Way. Al favored his grandkids Jason, Jill, Ryan, Kari, Mark, Renee, Michael Dean, Lori, and Craig. He was “Papa Al” to his great grandkids Brendan (Bubba), Corin, Kala, Kacee, and Trenton.

Al leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews. The kids thank cousins Delores, Addie, Max, Brian, and Bob for their love and devotion to their last Uncle. A special acknowledgement goes to his family of friends at Silveridge Park in Mesa Arizona: Marge, Joanna, Curtis, Ernie, Ron, Russ, Lorraine and many others. Honorary Pallbearers; Bob Lizotte, Mike Barnick, Milo Schmidt, Bob Barnick, Jason Baumgartner and Ryan Schmidt. A special thank you to the wonderful staff at Memorial Hospital that cared for our Dad. And, also to Hospice, we truly appreciate your support.

A graveside service will be conducted on Saturday, October 13, 2012 at Calvary Cemetery, 1405 S. 24th Ave. Yakima at 11:00 a.m. with full military honors conducted by members the Marine Corps League and Washington State National Guard. To celebrate the life of Alfred and share a memory please visit www.keithandkeith.com.